that come up.
When you leave a message, does he return your call?
Does he promptly return a page?
Does he listen to you?
Nothing is more important than feeling as if your contractor understands your needs and concerts. If your contractor is so busy that he cannot return calls or pages promptly, maybe it’s time to look for a new contractor. When you are in a discussion, does the contractor listen to you? I mean really listen. This is vital.
You should always feel that both of you are on the same page. This can avoid miscommunication and costly errors. This is a very important “secret” to a successful and enjoyable remodeling experience. Choose someone who will listen to you.
2. Comfort. If you feel comfortable with your contractor – the chances are good your project will run smoothly. Think about it. You have just invited a stranger into your home. Do you find this person nice? Considerate? Personable? A good listener? Was he polite and courteous? Or did he make you feel that he was not interested? You will be working with this person for a matter of days, weeks or months depending upon the project you need completed. Can you stand to have this person around?
3. Trustworthy. If you feel your contractor is trustworthy – the likelihood of a successful project is good. Check his references. Keep in mind that if your project will entail entrance into your home and you will not be home during the day, the keys to your castle will be given to your contractor. Can you trust him? Listen to your
conscience.
4. Completion. Will you contractor give you a reasonable estimate for how long the project will take to complete? A good contractor will do this. Remember, you want to hire a good contractor – not get a new roommate! Nothing is more frustrating and irritating than a remodel job that drags on and on.
5. Written Proposal. I cannot tell you how many contractors I have seen who look at rather complex jobs, and then pick a price out of thin air. They scribble the figure on the back of their business card, and give the card to the homeowner. Show contractors that do this to the door! You want a detailed written proposal that shows what is included: Exact materials, brand names (where important), costs, and the payment schedule.
6. Details. Work out the little details before work begins. Talk about things like:
- Where will the dumpster go: or where will the debris pile be created?
- What time will construction begin in the morning?
- What time will construction end in the evening?
- Will work take place on weekends?
- Will workmen refrain from smoking inside the home?
7. Flexibility. Remodeling is an interruption to your normal lifestyle. If your project involves the kitchen – plan to eat a few extra meals out with the kids (or better yet, send the kids to “mom” and go out alone). And remember, remodeling time may not be the best time to host a slumber party for your eight-year-old daughter.
8. Appearance. If the contractor has a neat appearance, this is a very good sign of things to come. This may sound silly, but it’s not. He does not have to show up in a coat and tie, but neatness does count. Is he clean? Is his truck presentable – or falling apart? Is his truck permanently lettered? Does it contain his license number? If the contractor’s appearance is neat, chances are good that he will keep your job and your home neat, also.
9. Down Payment. If the contractor asks for a big chunk of money up front, it could be a tip-off that he is not in good financial shape. You could be in for a rocky experience. A fair down payment should not exceed one-third (1/3), unless your job requires custom-ordered items in the beginning stages of construction. As the work progresses, you should expect to pay out additional funds to match the prescribed, completed stages.
10. Change Orders. With remodeling, there is always the chance that you may want – or need – to change a material or contract item. Ask how these are handled. They should be written on a separate document showing in detail what is being changed and how much it will cost. This should be done before the change is affected and signed by both the contractor and homeowner.
If all this makes sense, and you like my approach to remodeling, please give me a call at 916-646-6391.
Do not be another “nightmare remodeling story”. Plan your remodel with a professional, so your home will be something of which you will be very proud.
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